Calculator or pocket computer with selectable operational sequence

Abstract

A compact-size computer such as a functional calculator or a pocket computer selects either the sequential operation mode or formula memory mode according to the purpose of arithmetic operations and promotes faster and easier key operations. Specifically, it is substantially a calculator capable of executing formula calculations with different operational sequences wherein it comprises means for selecting and designating either the sequential operation mode that sequentially executes formula calculations according to individual key operations, or formula memory operation mode that executes operations after entry of the sequential operation mode.

What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A calculator for executing formula calculations according to a selected operational sequence, said calculator comprising: input keys for inputting data into said calculator according to individual key operations;   means for selecting modes under which a plurality of said input keys can be operated, said means for selecting modes comprising a sequential operational key for activating a sequential operational mode and a formula memory operational key for activating a formula memory operational mode, each said mode being capable of having different operational sequences, one of said keys of said means for selecting being actuated before a plurality of said input keys are actuated;   means for executing operations in response to actuation of one of said keys of said means for selecting, said means for executing performing operations in accordance with operational sequences corresponding to the actuated key of the means for selecting; and   said formula memory operational mode calculating said formulas according to an actuation sequence of said individual key operations according to a preference order of said operations after input of said individual key operations, said preference order being capable of calculating said formulas in a sequence different from said actuation sequence.   
     
     
       2. The calculator according to claim 1, wherein said means for executing further includes means for determining the operational sequences and for identifying selected ones of said operational sequences and wherein said means for executing outputs results of executed calculations and wherein said calculator further includes display means for displaying at least one of the data input into said calculator, results from said means for executing and an indicator for showing when one of said selected operational sequences is chosen.